football
Valerie Rudd
Abilene, Texas – ACU Head Football Coach Keith Patterson Abilene Christian University recently concluded a highly successful youth camp designed to inspire young athletes and promote the game of football, drawing enthusiastic attendees and praising the comprehensive training and instructional opportunities.
More than 100 aspiring football players from across the country were given the unique opportunity to learn from ACU's experienced coaching staff. Participants took part in skill-building sessions that focused on the fundamentals of passing, catching and blocking. The camp also emphasized the values of teamwork, faith and sportsmanship that are essential for success on and off the field.
Patterson is in his third year at the helm at ACU and has more than 35 years of football coaching experience, having appeared in 13 different bowl games and possessing the knowledge of creating an environment in which athletes can reach their full potential, which he hopes to impart to others.
“I ask our coaches,” Patterson said, “to teach the same way we teach our players. I want them to give their players a taste of football without letting age or grade level be a barrier.”
Patterson understands the value of youth camps in the community and the opportunity they give him to introduce his staff and programs to the community.
“This is a great opportunity to build bridges throughout our community,” Patterson said, “We're the only Division I university in the city, so I think this is an opportunity to promote the camp, not only to the young people who are attending, but also to the parents, who see the energy that our coaches have when they walk on campus and welcome them.”
The young players who participated had this to say about what they liked about their camp experience:
Kameron, 7 years old: “Tackling was the thing I enjoyed most about camp, but I also enjoyed both defense and offense.”
Hank, Age 10: “like [watching] All the ACU players. I loved my job as a cornerback.”
Gavin, age 10: “I've been to ACU camps all my life and it's really great to be outdoors. What I like most about ACU football is that there is Christianity within the sport.”
Cayden, 10 years old: “I just love playing football. It was fun playing football with other kids. Coach Patterson is my favorite coach.”
With less than 75 days until kickoff, the Wildcats will open the 2024 season taking on the Red Raiders in Lubbock at 6:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online To purchase or renew season tickets for the 2024 season, please visit acusports.com/tickets .
